The Ghana Police Service has successfully facilitated the return of two Ghanaian women who were kidnapped and trafficked to Nigeria in a romance scam operation. Their rescue has not only highlighted the dangers of online fraud but also prompted the police to issue a nationwide warning against the growing threat of digital romance scams.
Two Ghanaian women, Evelyn Serwaa Konadu and Anatasia Baidoo, who were abducted and trafficked to Nigeria through an elaborate romance scam, have returned safely to Ghana. Their repatriation was confirmed by the Criminal Investigations Department (CID) following a coordinated international rescue operation involving the Ghana Police Service, the Nigerian Police Force, and the National Signals Bureau.
The victims were received at the Kotoka International Airport on the morning of Wednesday, May 8, 2025. Police officials confirm that both women are in stable condition, undergoing medical checks, and will be provided counselling and psychological support before assisting with ongoing investigations.
According to police briefings, the two women were lured through online relationships with individuals who posed as foreigners expressing interest in marriage. Once trust was gained, the victims were persuaded to travel to Nigeria, where they were kidnapped, assaulted, and held for ransom.
A disturbing video sent to their families showed the women tied up and pleading for help. Their captors demanded GH¢500,000 from each victim’s family. Through intelligence operations, eight suspects including both Ghanaians and Nigerians were arrested in connection with the case.
In light of the incident, the Ghana Police Service has issued a public advisory urging citizens to be vigilant online.
“We urge everyone, especially women, to exercise extreme caution when engaging with strangers online. Do not share personal or financial information with people you’ve never met in person. Romance scams are on the rise, and they are becoming more sophisticated,” the police warned.
The Inspector-General of Police, Christian Tetteh Yohuno, has commended the swift response of all personnel involved in the rescue, as well as the cross-border collaboration that made the operation possible.
“This success reminds us of the power of joint action and vigilance in the fight against crime. We thank our colleagues from the Nigeria Police Force and the National Signals Bureau for their unwavering support,” said a police spokesperson.
The Ghana Police Service reaffirmed its commitment to protecting citizens and encouraged the public to report any suspicious activity, especially related to online fraud and suspicious financial demands.
As both victims begin their recovery, their story stands as a cautionary tale about the real-world dangers of digital deception and the importance of safeguarding personal security online.
By Peter Quao Adattor
